Samsung Galaxy S II users can now install Android 11-based LineageOS 18.1 manually [Download Link]
Around a decade ago, Samsung launched the Galaxy S II which is still remembered as a masterpiece. The device came equipped with a 4.27-inch Super AMOLED Plus display and the most powerful smartphone processor Exynos 4 Dual (4210) on the market at the time. Besides, it also became the first handset featuring a convenient flashlight function.
In the software department, the company shipped the Galaxy S II with Android 2.3 “Gingerbread” out of the box. Further, it has upgraded to Android 4.1.2 “Jelly Bean” and completed its major update lifecycle. Also, the Galaxy S II is no longer eligible to get any type of software update from Samsung as it is now a 10 year older phone.
Thanks to the group of XDA members for bringing the Galaxy S II users a way to unofficially install the Android 11-based LineageOS 18.1. Users can now get all the bells and whistles of the Android 11 version on this masterpiece unofficially. If you don’t know, LineageOS is a custom operating system for smartphones and tablets which is based on Android.
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It is worth noting that this unofficial Android 11-based LineageOS 18.1 ROM is compliant with Isolated Recovery (IsoRec), which means it is a straightforward flash via Odin. Furthermore, if you are going to install this port ROM, make sure to back up the data of your device at the beginning because you’ve to re-partition and subsequently wipe the internal storage of the device.
Tip: Samsung Odin: How to install the firmware manually
After installing the LineageOS 18.1 version of your Galaxy S II, you will notice that the Wi-Fi, camera, and audio are working fine. On the other hand, the RIL is partially working which means you will only able to receive calls but can’t call someone. Adding to this, several system functions such as GPS, FM Radio, and screencasting are not working with this build.
LineageOS brings plenty of features that the Android Open Source Project does not carry including button customization, custom quick-setting tiles, live display, lock screen customization, system profiles, custom pattern sizes, and much more exciting features.
Things to keep in mind before installation:
- LineageOS is a source-built ROM and not a Generic System Image (GSI)
- The ROM doesn’t bring Google apps built-in
* You’ve to install it separately if needed - You might face some bugs, errors, and issues because it is not an official ROM
How to install IsoRec?
- Download and install Isolated Recovery for the Galaxy S II – Link
Download LineageOS 18.1: [Model Number – GT-I9100]
- Download Android 11-based LineageOS 18.1 for Samsung Galaxy S II – Download Link
Samsung is preparing for its mega Unpacked event, likely to be held in early 2025. The company has recently started the mass production of the new smartphones and officially unveiled the Galaxy XR headset, codenamed Project Moohan.
A new leak (via Alvin/X) revealed key details about the Samsung Unpacked 2025 including the event date and time, location, unveiling devices, and more. It’s going to be a big event and you can expect many exciting unveilings.
Per the info, Samsung could hold the Galaxy Unpacked on January 22, 2025. The in-person event and online livestream may kick off at 10 a.m. Pacific Time. Interestingly, the new leak suggests San Jose as the venue for the Unpacked event.
- Washington, US (Eastern Time): 1:00 p.m. ET
- London, UK: 6:00 p.m. GMT
- New Delhi, India: 11:30 p.m. IST
Samsung held the Galaxy Unpacked 2024 in San Jose to unveil the Galaxy S24 series. Previous leaks point to San Francisco as the Unpacked venue for the next year. It would be interesting to see what Samsung picks for the mega unveiling.
We all are well aware of the upcoming devices that include the S25 series. Samsung will unveil the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra. The recently revealed XR headset (Project Moohan) could be teased, and probably the Glasses too.
Aside from this, the official One UI 7 will also be introduced. The new flagships will come pre-loaded with the latest software. However, the rollout plan of the One UI 7.0 update is expected to be released by Samsung.
Leaks suggest that Samsung is unlikely to raise the Galaxy S25 series price. The company is highly inspired by Apple as iPhone 16 series prices are intact. The Korean units may be slightly costlier than the global variants due to political chaos.
Samsung has opened a Customer Service Store in the Macquarie Centre, Sydney, offering a fresh and customer-focused shopping experience. Located on Level 4 of Macquarie Centre at Herring Road &Waterloo Rd, the store is designed to give customers an immersive experience with Samsung’s wide range of connected devices.
The Samsung Store features self-discovery zones where shoppers can explore products in detail and consultation lounges where they can get personalized advice and support. The lounges are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools to help customers troubleshoot any issues with their devices.
This store also aims to minimize device downtime. It offers on-site repairs so customers can get their devices fixed while they shop, with the backing of an authorized service center. This quick and efficient service ensures customers don’t have to wait long for solutions.
Samsung is Australia’s most trusted consumer products brand (Roy Morgan in December 2024) as it is dedicated to delivering high-quality products and exceptional customer service. The opening of this new store shows Samsung’s commitment to providing a seamless, customer-friendly experience that blends innovation with care.
Muneeb Ekhlaque, Head of Customer Service at Samsung Electronics Australia, said, “We’re excited to offer a new store in Sydney that improves the overall customer experience. We understand how important technology is to Australians, and this store is designed to make shopping and support easier and more enjoyable.”
Samsung’s One UI 7 Beta Program for Galaxy S24 series hit full capacity. If you missed joining the Beta Program, there’s good news: Samsung is expected to reopen the One UI 7 Beta on Monday along with the Beta 2 launch.
Max Jambor revealed that Samsung may open the second phase of One UI 7 Beta registration, and the date aligns with previous rumors of a Beta 2 launch. The rollout of the second Beta should bring another opportunity to join the Beta.
At present, Samsung is running the Beta Program for the Galaxy S24 series. The program is already live in four out of six key markets: Germany, South Korea, the UK, and the US.
Samsung stopped Beta registrations just the next day after the Beta launch in the US. It seems the slots are fewer than last year, keeping the Beta build restricted to a limited audience.
Recently, Samsung Support confirmed that the One UI 7 Beta Program will start on December 16 in India, and the same date is rumored for the remaining European market: Poland.
The Beta participants will receive an incremental update as Beta 2 on their Galaxy S24 device. However, the latest build will directly be provided to the Wave 2 markets: India and Poland.
The second Beta of One UI 7 will bring improved animation and transition effects. Samsung users can expect more natural and fluid system animations in the next Beta updates.
One UI 7 Beta 2 – What to expect?
- Smoother animations, fluid transitions
- Enhanced performance and lesser app incompatibility
- Bug fixes and overall user experience improvements